Pay to Play Reform

Absent of proper controls, public contracting is increasingly dominated by “pay-to-play” practices where large campaign contributions are traded for lucrative government contracts. In the process, taxpayers pay more for lower quality services and local elections become too costly for everyday Americans to contemplate running. The Citizens' Campaign Model Public contracting reform ordinance severs the link between campaign contributions and government contracts, ensuring that merit and cost effectiveness drive the contract process while leveling the playing field to run for political office.

Establishing a Public Contracting "Pay-to-Play" Ordinance in your Municipality, School District, or County

Step 2: PREPARE. Get ready for your presentation by downloading our Pay-to-Play Reform Presentation Kit which includes a sample OPRA Request, sample Presentation Statement, and an Advisory Policy Memo. And make sure to reach out and build support through friends, family, social media, and local media!

Step 3: PRESENT. Download the Model Ordinance and make an official presentation to your local governing body.

Step 4: FOLLOW UP! Officials have a lot on their plates, so it's up to you to follow-up and make sure your proposal doesn't get lost in the shuffle! Attend council meetings, email, and call officials if you don't get an adequate response (but always be respectful!). And if you continue to hit roadblocks? Request a coach from The Citizens Campaign to help you out.